The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, has resolved to crack down on unlicensed individuals posing as journalists, warning that impersonators will henceforth face legal consequences in line with the Nigeria Press Council Law.
This declaration was contained in a nine-point communique issued after the Council’s monthly congress held at the NUJ Press Centre, Umuahia. The statement, signed by the Council Chairman, Comrade Chidi Asonye, and Secretary, Comrade Iyke Onuegbu, emphasized the Union’s commitment to sanitizing the profession.
“In line with the directive by the National Secretariat, Congress resolves to fight quackery and impersonation of journalists by non-professionals,” the communique read. “Henceforth, anyone not licensed to practise as a journalist in accordance with the Nigeria Press Council law but parading as one, especially bloggers, if arrested, will be made to face the full weight of the law.”
Beyond media issues, the congress addressed a range of governance and public service concerns in the state.
On civil service matters, the NUJ appealed to Governor Alex Otti to conclude the long-delayed promotion exercise, pointing out that many workers have remained stagnant for over six years. The Union also decried ongoing complaints of salary underpayment, unexplained stoppages, and heavy deductions, calling for better financial oversight across government agencies.
While commending the Otti-led administration for sustained investment in road infrastructure, the NUJ urged the contractor handling the Akanu Ibiam and Library Avenue road projects to ensure proper drainage systems to prevent flooding in surrounding areas.
In response to frequent accidents at the Signboard Junction along the Umuahia-Uzuakoli Road, the Union called for the construction of a roundabout and installation of speed breakers, while cautioning motorists and tricycle operators against excessive speeding on the newly constructed road.
On environmental issues, the NUJ urged the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) and residents to clear blocked drainages to avert flooding during the rainy season.
The Union also praised the state government for its plan to develop a world-class Medical City at Mbasaa in Isiala Ngwa South LGA, and commended the recent completion of an access road through Umuocheala, one of the host communities.
Raising concerns about alleged misconduct by Internal Revenue Service officials in Umuahia, the NUJ condemned the collection of cash from revenue defaulters without issuing receipts, and reminded the public that such practices are banned under Governor Otti’s anti-leakage financial policies.
Lastly, the NUJ applauded the launch of the Integrated WASH Accelerated Programme (IWAP), which combines solar energy, water supply, and sanitation to enhance public hygiene. It urged the deployment of qualified personnel to manage the facilities effectively and prevent vandalism.
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